How to Identify Inflammation in Preauricular Sinus: A Guide
Preauricular sinus Hello Doctor: I have had preauricular sinuses in both ears since childhood. How can I determine if the sinuses are inflamed? When I was younger, the doctor suggested surgery, but my mother was concerned, so I have not had the surgery until now. In my family, I ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, if the preauricular sinus is not inflamed, surgical intervention is not necessary. However, since you currently have purulent drainage from the sinus, it is advisable to undergo surgery as soon as possible. Waiting until the surrounding tissue...[Read More] How to Identify Inflammation in Preauricular Sinus: A Guide
Understanding Ear Pain After Eardrum Rupture: Is It Normal?
After a tympanic membrane rupture? Hello Dr. Hsu, my friend previously consulted you regarding my ruptured eardrum. My right eardrum ruptured in mid-April while I was playing the clarinet, and I continued to play for about ten minutes afterward. After examinations by two speciali...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, theoretically, since you have already been examined by two otolaryngologists and both your hearing and tympanic pressure tests are normal, you should be able to engage in normal activities. However, since you previously experienced a ruptured ...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain After Eardrum Rupture: Is It Normal?
Understanding Tongue Sores: Causes, Symptoms, and Concerns
Tongue ulcer I would like to ask! I usually take vitamin C, but why do I still have sores on my tongue? Also, there are some dark spots under my tongue; what could that be? Could these be symptoms of oral cancer? By the way, I don't smoke or chew betel nut. Thank you!
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many reasons for persistent sores on the tongue, such as viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, deficiencies in vitamin B12, folate, or iron, hormonal changes, stress, trauma, food allergies, or immune system issues. As for the dark...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Sores: Causes, Symptoms, and Concerns
Understanding and Managing Ear Pulsations: Expert Insights
Swelling Hello, Director. I would like to ask: About two months ago, I started experiencing a sensation of occasional throbbing or fullness in my ear. I visited an ENT specialist, and the examination showed no signs of inflammation. Sometimes, taking medication and using ear drop...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, although there is no inflammation in your ear, you have been experiencing a persistent sensation of fullness. It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for an examination to check for any other issues, such as Eustachian tube d...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Ear Pulsations: Expert Insights
Understanding Unusual Growths on Your Tongue: Causes and Treatments
Abnormal growths on the tongue? Hello Doctor, recently I have noticed some strange growths on my tongue. When I looked in the mirror, I saw small white bumps, about the size of a pimple but slightly smaller. This is the third time it has occurred; I had similar bumps twice before...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many glands on the tongue responsible for secretion. If these glands become blocked or inflamed, it can lead to the symptoms mentioned above. However, it is still recommended that you see an otolaryngologist for an examination to est...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Growths on Your Tongue: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Causes, Concerns, and Cancer Risks
Lymphadenopathy? I recently noticed a round swelling about 1 centimeter in size on the right side of my neck that feels a bit painful. I saw a doctor who said it is lymphadenopathy and advised me to get blood tests for the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). This makes me a bit worried. Ca...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are approximately 100-300 lymph nodes in the neck. The causes of lymphadenopathy can be categorized into five main types: (1) immune responses, such as tonsillitis or pharyngitis; (2) direct infection of the lymph nodes; (3) metastasis o...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Causes, Concerns, and Cancer Risks
Understanding Preauricular Sinus: Congenital vs. Acquired Causes
I would like to inquire about issues related to preauricular sinuses? Dear Dr. Hsu, I would like to inquire about the etiology of preauricular sinuses. Are they congenital conditions or acquired? A family member of mine underwent surgery for the removal of a preauricular sinus, ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, generally speaking, when the embryo develops to three months of age, the six hillocks derived from the first and second pharyngeal arches will fuse to form the future auricle. If they do not fuse completely, a fistula may remain on the outer e...[Read More] Understanding Preauricular Sinus: Congenital vs. Acquired Causes
Understanding Dizziness and Tinnitus: Causes and Treatment Options
Dizziness & Tinnitus Hello Dr. Hsu: My grandfather developed tinnitus over a month ago, which later progressed to dizziness. When it becomes severe, he even faints. He has seen multiple doctors and after taking medication and receiving injections, his symptoms improve for a d...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, as you mentioned, it appears to be a symptom of vertigo. You should visit an otolaryngologist for further examination of the inner ear and vestibular nerve to determine the cause.[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Tinnitus: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Stugeron and Ativan: Uses and Side Effects Explained
Drug name Hello, Dr. Hsu: Could you please tell me what these two medications, PASTU Stugeron and PAATI1 Ativan, are primarily used to treat and what their side effects are? Thank you, Doctor.
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, you can check the online pharmacopoeia. The website is: http://www.webhospital.org.tw/medicine/index.htm[Read More] Understanding Stugeron and Ativan: Uses and Side Effects Explained
Understanding Sebaceous Cysts in Earlobes: Treatment and Concerns
Tumor in the earlobe? A sebaceous cyst has formed in my earlobe, and it hurts when I press on it. The doctor said it is benign and that surgery is the only option. I spent 310 NT dollars, which is painful for me, but is surgery really necessary? Could it turn malignant? I often f...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. Based on your symptoms and pathology report, if it is confirmed to be a sebaceous adenoma, it is considered benign and has no potential to become malignant. However, since it can cause discomfort, surgical removal is appropriate. 2. As for...[Read More] Understanding Sebaceous Cysts in Earlobes: Treatment and Concerns
Painful Lump Below Earlobe: Could It Be a Tumor?
There is a lump located just below the earlobe that hurts when pressed? I have a lump located just below the earlobe that hurts when pressed. Could it be a tumor? Is it serious? Thank you.
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, your description is too brief. How long has the pain lasted for the area below your earlobe? What is the size? Has it continued to grow? There are no detailed descriptions provided. Therefore, I recommend that you see an otolaryngologist for f...[Read More] Painful Lump Below Earlobe: Could It Be a Tumor?
Understanding Chronic Throat Issues: Insights from an ENT Specialist
Response to Throat Issues Your question: Doctor: Hello, I have been experiencing a persistent sensation of heat in my throat since early May, and it has been uncomfortable. I can't quite describe it as pain, but I feel a cool sensation when I breathe in, and sometimes my ear...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your inquiry, based on your symptoms, it is possible that you are experiencing chronic laryngitis or discomfort due to gastroesophageal reflux. Since you have undergone relevant examinations, the likelihood of SARS is extremely low, and there are no further ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Throat Issues: Insights from an ENT Specialist
Persistent Throat Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Symptoms
Sore throat Doctor: Hello, I have been experiencing a persistent warm sensation in my throat since early May, and it has been quite uncomfortable. I can't quite describe it as pain, but I feel a cool sensation when I inhale, and sometimes my ears also feel cool. Eating is no...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your inquiry, based on your symptoms, it is possible that you are experiencing chronic laryngitis or discomfort due to gastroesophageal reflux. Since you have undergone relevant examinations, the likelihood of SARS is extremely low, and there are no further ...[Read More] Persistent Throat Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Symptoms
Persistent Tongue Pain: Which Specialist to Consult for Relief?
Glossitis Hello, I have been experiencing a burning sensation on my tongue for almost six months. I have seen many doctors, but it seems ineffective. Which specialty should I consult to better identify the issue? Thank you! (I have already seen dentistry, otolaryngology, internal...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, based on your symptoms, it is possible that your sensory nerves are more sensitive. If you have seen several specialists and there are no significant findings, it should not be a major concern. I recommend that you maintain good oral hygiene a...[Read More] Persistent Tongue Pain: Which Specialist to Consult for Relief?
Understanding Congenital Anosmia: Causes and Treatment Options
Can you help me with my question? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask why I was born without the sense of smell. I feel quite sad about it. Why can't I perceive odors, and is there any way to treat my condition?
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your inquiry, based on your symptoms, it appears that there may be a degeneration of the olfactory nerve. This could be due to chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps, or it may be a result of a previous injury. I recommend that you visit an otolaryngology clinic ...[Read More] Understanding Congenital Anosmia: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Recovery After Eardrum Rupture: Symptoms and Risks
After the eardrum rupture heals..? Hello, doctor. It has been a month since my eardrum ruptured. The examination results show that the inflammation has healed and the eardrum has recovered, but it is still slightly red. The results of the ear pressure test are normal, but I still...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, a normal eardrum has three layers, while a ruptured eardrum that heals will only have two layers, resulting in reduced "stress" tolerance. Generally, after an eardrum rupture, 90% of individuals will heal within a month if there is n...[Read More] Understanding Recovery After Eardrum Rupture: Symptoms and Risks
Tinnitus and Military Service: Seeking Solutions and Exemptions
Tinnitus issues related to military service discharge? Hello... I have been experiencing tinnitus for over a month now, which occurred unexpectedly and has been continuous for 24 hours. I have visited an ENT clinic, the ENT department at a veterans hospital, and a traditional Chi...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, tinnitus does not seem to meet the criteria for discharge. Generally, the criteria for discharge pertain to hearing impairment. Please consult the Ministry of National Defense or a military hospital for further information.[Read More] Tinnitus and Military Service: Seeking Solutions and Exemptions
How Long Does It Take for a Ruptured Eardrum to Heal?
Tympanic membrane rupture? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask how long it takes for a ruptured eardrum to heal? And how long after that can I play the clarinet again?
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, a ruptured eardrum typically heals within a month in the absence of infection. During this time, it is advisable to avoid actions that increase inner ear pressure, so it is best to wait at least a month before playing the clarinet.[Read More] How Long Does It Take for a Ruptured Eardrum to Heal?
Struggles with Ear Surgery: Seeking Solutions for Eardrum Issues
I have undergone surgery on my ear twice? I have already undergone two surgeries on my ear due to a retracted eardrum. A small hole was made in the eardrum to insert a blue tube. I had it inserted in July last year, but it fell out by November. Is that too soon? Also, I haven...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, I recommend that you first undergo a pure tone audiometry test to assess your postoperative hearing recovery and the current condition of your middle ear.[Read More] Struggles with Ear Surgery: Seeking Solutions for Eardrum Issues
Understanding Sudden Hearing Loss: Causes and Recovery Options
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss Hello, doctor... I have been experiencing sudden hearing loss for two years, and no definite cause has been found. Does this mean that it is truly impossible for me to recover? Also, I recently underwent a test using a so-called "energy devi...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, poor lymphatic circulation in the neck is not the primary cause of sudden hearing loss. It is recommended that you first undergo a pure tone audiometry test to assess your current hearing status.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Hearing Loss: Causes and Recovery Options